Communications & Engagement Manager

$91,918 - $135,175/Yr

Macy's - Rochester, MN

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Rochester, MN

General Merchandise Retailers

About the position

The City of Rochester invites applications for the position of Communications & Engagement Manager. This role is pivotal in fostering a sense of belonging within the community by ensuring that all members feel recognized and heard. The City is committed to equity, striving to represent the diversity of its community in its workforce, as diverse and inclusive teams are known to be more innovative and impactful. The Communications & Engagement Manager will work under the direction of the Strategic Communications & Engagement Director, serving as a primary administrator and consultant for the City's community engagement, public information, and internal communications. This position will be a resource for all City Departments, focusing on the development, maintenance, implementation, and continual improvement of effective communication policies, plans, and practices. The role emphasizes proactive, clear, and consistent two-way communication between City government and its residents, businesses, organizations, visitors, and other stakeholders. The Communications & Engagement Manager will lead strategic transformation projects and initiatives, ensuring that community engagement efforts are inclusive and equitable. This includes developing comprehensive community engagement strategies that increase participation and collaboration in decision-making processes. The manager will also assist in formulating City-wide communications plans that align with the organization’s strategic goals, ensuring that all communications meet standards for diversity, equity, and inclusion. The position requires a proactive approach to media relations, cultivating relationships with media representatives to ensure positive coverage of City programs and initiatives. Additionally, the manager will supervise assigned employees, providing direction, coaching, and performance evaluations to ensure effective team dynamics and project execution. The typical work schedule is from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, with the possibility of evening and weekend work based on community events. Remote work is available on a hybrid basis, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The starting salary for this position ranges from $91,918 to $135,175 annually, depending on qualifications, with opportunities for advancement based on performance and organizational needs.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for strategic transformation projects and manage related communications and engagement activities.
• Serve as the lead Communications & Engagement teammate on strategic transformation projects and initiatives.
• Build and maintain relationships with organizational partners such as Destination Medical Center and Mayo Clinic.
• Oversee contracts with communications and engagement consultants.
• Maintain awareness of key milestones and project needs to ensure successful execution of communications and engagement activities.
• Assist in developing and delivering community engagement efforts focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Contribute to the development of a comprehensive community engagement strategy to increase participation in decision-making processes.
• Gather information from residents through surveys and focus groups to assess community needs.
• Lead the use of the Business Forward methodology on City projects.
• Assist in developing and implementing City-wide communications plans in support of organizational goals.
• Participate in formulating City-wide communications plans and ensure compliance with standards for diversity and inclusion.
• Oversee digital communications, including the City's website and social media, to enhance community engagement.
• Serve as the Deputy Public Information Officer in emergency situations, coordinating communication efforts.
• Manage media relations, preparing spokespersons and analyzing media coverage.
• Supervise assigned employees, providing direction and conducting performance evaluations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, or a related field.
• 5 years of full-time experience in public relations, community engagement, marketing, or a closely related field in a government, non-profit, or public sector setting.
• 1 year of experience providing leadership and direction to other employees.
• Possession of a valid driver's license.

Nice-to-haves

• Fluency in one or more languages spoken by the city's immigrant and refugee populations, particularly Spanish or Somali.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Dental insurance coverage
• Retirement savings plan (401k)
• Paid holidays
• Flexible scheduling options
• Remote work opportunities
• Professional development programs
• Employee assistance programs